One scorpion, two venoms: prevenom of Parabuthus transvaalicus acts as an alternative type of venom with distinct mechanism of action.

ABSTRACT: Scorpion venom is a complex mixture of salts, small molecules, peptides, and proteins. Scorpions employ this valuable tool in several sophisticated ways for subduing prey, deterring predators, and possibly during mating. Here, a subtle but clever strategy of venom utilization by scorpions is reported. Scorpions secrete a small quantity of transparent venom when initially stimulated that we propose to name prevenom. If secretion continues, a cloudy and dense venom that is white in color is subsequently released. The prevenom contains a combination of high K(+) salt and several peptides including some that block rectifying K(+) channels and elicit significant pain and toxicity because of a massive local depolarization. The presence of high extracellular K(+) in the prevenom can depolarize ce

SUBMITTER: Inceoglu B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC298702 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature